Objective: To understand the issue with Adaptive Front Lighting (AFS) and how to fix it by replacing the turn signal bulbs.
The most common problem with the adaptive cornering lighting system (AFS) is a burned-out bulb. Even if your car is equipped with dynamic headlights that swivel the bi-xenon projectors based on the steering wheel’s position, there are still two H7 bulbs for the static cornering lights. Both of these bulbs must be working for the system to function properly. If you see the message “Fault: Adaptive Lighting (AFS)” on the instrument cluster and/or the infotainment screen, one of the first things you should check is these bulbs. It’s a quick and easy fix. As soon as the bulb is replaced, the error message disappears. It is not necessary to use a diagnostic tool such as VCDS or OBDeleven, but there will most likely be a fault code stored in the module’s memory (“09 – Cent. Elect.”). H7 static turn signal bulbs are also used as additional lighting when the car is in reverse. For a whiter light similar to xenon, you can replace these bulbs with white H7 bulbs (bluish bulb).
If the problem persists after replacing the bulbs, or if the bulbs were not faulty and you have an issue with the electrical control unit or xenon system, such as “incorrect basic setting/adaptation” or “missing headlight calibration”: A basic headlight adjustment must be performed! If the fault is “ECU incorrectly coded,” “ECU headlight settings,” “lighting actuator,” or “AFS module in the headlight assembly faulty,” check the connectors; if necessary, replace the module or inspect the headlight assembly.
Fault: adaptive lighting system (AFS) on instrument cluster (ODB) :
Default: adaptive lighting system (AFS) on Discover Media or Pro infotainment screen:
The H7 adaptive lighting bulb is shown here in the Golf 7 headlamp unit:
Location of the light, on the driver’s side:
Location of driver’s side light, after removing cover and H7 bulb, beam disconnected :
Location of passenger-side light :
Location of passenger-side light, with cover removed, bulb and harness in place:
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